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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei closed its doors over the weekend.

In a social media update, the facility clarified that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”

“All possibilities were exhausted. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the facility’s manager.

“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable capital investment,” the operator noted.

In a subsequent update, the facility verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager said.

However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the conditions remain unclear, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were filled with comments from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the park would review the plan to put them down.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she said. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this tragic predicament.”

The landowner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the choice to humanely kill the cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A senior official stated that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in line with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to ensure this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its animal welfare and enclosure responsibilities.”

The sanctuary attained a degree of notoriety in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a staff member was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often encountered monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were improved. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.